Three Peach Roses

Dimitri

Chapter 2

The breeze was cool on Magnolia's face as she followed Mahogany into the Violet River Palace Courtyard. Her face was glowing with excitement and her bronze hair, shining red in the sun, was blowing out behind her. Magnolia felt a fizzing in the pit of her stomach, as if she had a firefly was trapped there. She knew it was finally her time. This is what she was born to do.

King Dimitri was a young King, at only 19 years old. He was dark and handsome with almond shaped brown eyes and a permanent sultry smile. He had not been on the throne long but he was desperate to make a statement with his Royal Court. His Father, King Stefan II, who only ruled for two years, had been creating a quiet and modest Court which was more focused on intellect and peace. King Dimitri craved a lively and glamorous Court with parties, beautiful women and luxury. Lord Edward Devereaux felt this was a perfect way to regain what they had lost during the War. He was going to use his beautiful daughters as spies.

"Miss Devereaux." The King's servant, George, greeted Mahogany and he held out her hand to help her dismount her horse. Mahogany gave him a dazzling smile.

"King Dimitri is in his drawing room. I will escort you there." George led the sisters through the servant's entrance of the Palace. Marianne was so entranced by the beauty of the Palace she forgot the anxiety which was numbing her insides. Gold and turquoise silk curtains hung regally and ancient, glossy vases graced every table top. When they reached the door, George knocked and the nervous fear returned to Marianne and almost paralysed her. She longed to be home with her books and her sea view. During the War, Magnolia and Mahogany felt bored and restless confined to their small coastal Manor House. However Marianne was quite content, she spent her days studying and felt soothed by the ocean. Marianne knew she wasn't ready for this change.

"Come in." A voice said. Inside the drawing room was just as luxurious as the hallways. King Dimitri sat behind a large wooden desk with his feet resting on the shining surface. He was surrounded by his group of close friends who were all young noble men of the country.

"Your Highness, presenting the honourable Devereaux sisters." George said. King Dimitri raised his eyebrows at the family name as the girls curtsied delicately.

"You can leave now George." Well, well, well. Do come in Ladies." He said in a soft, low voice. Mahogany eyed him, walking gracefully with her head held high. She was followed closely by her sisters.

"So Devereaux sisters, what brings you to my court?" He said with a smile.

"Your Highness. We wish to serve you." Mahogany said. King Dimitri laughed lightly.

"Served by a Devereaux? That's new!" His friends chuckled.

"We are here to make up for our families mistakes, my Lord." Magnolia said, Dimitri looked Magnolia's slim body up and down. He paused for a moment.

"I accept you as part of my Court. Three beautiful young ladies like yourselves will be a very valuable asset." Dimitri said lazily, flicking his hair back and grinning. Magnolia and Mahogany smiled the same seductive smile. Marianne felt very uncomfortable. She was disgusted- how could he talk about three Noble women in this way? As if we are common whores!- she thought. She glanced at her sisters, expecting them to be as appalled too and to speak out but they said nothing. Magnolia and Mahogany sensed their sister's feelings and quickly acted.

"Your Highness, might we be shown our room? It has been a long trip, all the way from Polzen and we do not want to miss dinner." Magnolia said sweetly and smoothly.

"Of course, Ladies; I wouldn't want that!" Dimitri rang the servant's bell.

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